Grade II listed White Lion Hotel is in new hands

The Grade-II listed former coaching inn, the White Lion Hotel, has been under the ownership of Jon and Chris Lear since 1997. 

After 25 years at the helm they have sold the property in order to retire, selling it to Donnington Brewery.

The White Lion Hotel stands out in the town centre with its yellow stucco façade and lion sculpture over the entrance. 

Chris and Jon said: “We’ve thoroughly enjoyed our tenure at the White Lion.

"We both left our roles in the corporate hotel market to run our own business our way, and we have definitely done that.

HOTEL White Lion Hotel

"Being in the heart of the town we’ve served the local community, as well as supported the numerous events that take place in Upton every year.

“Now is the time for us to step back from the industry, but we’re delighted to be handing it to a company and family like Johnny’s that has deep routes in hospitality as well.”

John Arkell of Donnington Brewery said: “We’re delighted to add the White Lion Hotel to our portfolio of Donnington Brewery pubs, we have a strong reputation in the area for providing good quality local beers as well as great hospitality.

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“The new tenants Michelle and Michael McClusky will be picking up the mantel from Jon and Chris and providing great customer service and accommodation, alongside our brilliant beers.”

Peter Brunt, from Colliers Hotel Agency handled the sale, and on completion day he presented Jon and Chris with five pounds so that they could say the property had sold for more than their target price.

Mr Brunt added: “Jon and Chris are really part of the local community and I’m pleased we’ve been able to sell their business on to an organisation that really believes in local hospitality."